Crystal Palace boss thwarted in Newcastle star swoop

Crystal Palace manager Tony Pulis has been left frustrated in his attempts to sign Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor, according to the Telegraph.

Pulis is operating with the lowest budget in the Premier League, and is desperate to strengthen his squad this month in order to help Palace avoid the drop.

The Welshman has been knocked back with approaches for Nikica Jelavic, Tom Ince, Jonny Heitinga and Bobby Zamora due to Palace’s wage structure, while a £3million deal for Blackburn Rovers centre back Scott Dann is hanging in the balance.

Palace chairman Steve Parish is due to fly to the Caribbean this week for a short holiday, and Pulis is concerned he will be unable to add any new signings before the game with former club Stoke City on Saturday.

27-year-old Taylor made only his third start of the season for Newcastle against Manchester City on Sunday, and has been heavily linked with a move away from St James’ Park this month.

However, the centre back is on a £45k a week contract at Newcastle, meaning Palace have no chance of matching his wages.

Pulis is likely to turn to the Championship to try and strike more affordable deals, while possibly offloading some fringe players to free up funds.

Midfielder Owen Garvan could be one outgoing player, with former club Ipswich Town keen on resigning him this month.